Hawaii Senate Bill SCR219

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 4/3/24
• Engrossed: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/5/24
• Report Pass: 4/15/24
• Refer: 4/15/24

Caption

Urging The Federal Emergency Management Agency To Expedite The Placement Of Maui Wildfire Survivors Into The Federal Direct Lease Program.

Impact

The bill seeks to facilitate a quicker and more efficient process for survivors to secure temporary housing by engaging FEMA. By advocating for the acceleration of the Direct Lease Program, the resolution aims to alleviate the ongoing housing crisis faced by displaced residents. This could potentially enhance the overall recovery efforts in Maui and reduce the burden on state and local resources by providing a structured avenue for housing support.

Summary

SCR219 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii, urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to expedite the placement of survivors from the August 2023 Maui wildfires into the Federal Direct Lease Program. The resolution highlights the significant displacement of residents caused by the wildfires, which destroyed or damaged over 2,200 structures, leaving numerous families without shelter. The urgency of this resolution is compounded by reports that hundreds of survivors remain without long-term housing options even months after the disaster.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SCR219 appears to be supportive, particularly among legislators and community leaders who view it as a crucial step in providing vital housing assistance. The resolution underscores the moral and financial responsibility of government entities to care for disaster victims. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding the efficiency and responsiveness of FEMA, especially regarding its processes and the timeliness of aid distribution.

Contention

While SCR219 is primarily a plea to expedite housing solutions, there may be contention surrounding the systemic challenges within FEMA and its ability to adapt to urgent disaster recovery needs. Issues such as lengthy credit and background checks that survivors face when entering the Direct Lease Program can hinder timely access to housing. Discussions surrounding these concerns suggest a need for improving FEMA's processes and ensuring that they are adequately equipped to meet the demands of disaster-affected populations.